Living rurally
Working and living on a farm
Go for the work-life balance
We’re blessed with some amazing scenery in New Zealand and working on a dairy farm will help you enjoy the great outdoors in our amazing country.
Living rurally means you get the best of both worlds. Earning a living in the wide-open spaces, but often close enough to the nearest large town or city to enjoy it and remain connected to urban New Zealand.
A job on a dairy farm can also include housing on the property. With generally lower rent than in most towns or cities you can get on the property ladder faster, and the convenience cuts out time wasted on a commute to work, allowing you to pack more into your life.
Socialising in rural areas
Moving to the country can enhance your social life.
Flexible rosters allow for more time during the day to enjoy the outdoors with other like-minded people. You may also have time to go for new hobby or master a forgotten one.
Meeting new people is also enhanced in rural communities with groups like Young Farmers or Dairy Women’s Network, perfect platforms to engage with others and get off farm for some fun.
Sam White and Kate Stewart explain why they joined Young Farmers.
Family life on a dairy farm
Bringing up a family on a farm is another benefit to living rurally.
Rural communities are very welcoming and often sports and outdoor activities are easily accessible. Rural schools have smaller classroom sizes for enriched learning opportunities.
A shift to the country might mean a move for your whole family. It is a great idea to consider the benefits for both you and your family.
Hear from Emily who choose to go from the city to live with her partner on the farm.
About DairyNZ
DairyNZ is an organisation that, through research, events, services, education and policy, works with dairy farmers to secure and enhance the profitability, sustainability and competitiveness of New Zealand dairy farming. New Zealand dairy farmers pay DairyNZ a levy to support them. Find out more at www.dairynz.co.nz.